Key Facts

  • Starting
    13 Nov 2026
    Location
    Tooting
    Start Time
    10:30
    End Time
    12:30
    Duration
    5 Weeks
    Study Mode
    Part Time Day
    Days
    Friday
    Start Date
    13 Nov 2026
    Level
    Short Course
    Code
    TACX066CL

    Fees

    19+ Fee
    £ 65

    Enrol

Art for Relaxation

Art for Relaxation

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This is welcoming and creative course designed to promote wellbeing through painting and mindful artistic expression. No previous art experience is required. Participants will explore a variety of painting techniques and creative exercises that encourage relaxation, reduce stress, and support mindfulness in a friendly and supportive environment.

The course focuses on enjoying the creative process rather than producing perfect artwork. Through guided painting activities, colour exploration, and mindful observation, learners will have the opportunity to slow down, express themselves creatively, and develop confidence in using art as a tool for relaxation and self-care.

  • Entry Requirements


    No prior experience is required:

    *Enthusiasm for learning and working with the human form.

    *Willingness to engage in practical drawing and painting exercises.

  • Course Content


    By the end of the course, learners will be able to:

    Use simple painting techniques to create mindful artwork. Apply basic mindfulness practices during creative activities to promote relaxation. Experiment with colour, texture, and composition to express thoughts and emotions creatively. Demonstrate increased confidence in using painting as a form of self-expression. *Identify how creative activities can support mental wellbeing and reduce stress.

  • Progression Next Steps


    After completing this course, students may choose to progress to:

    Advanced drawing and painting courses. Specialised courses in general painting, figure composition, or mixed media. Portfolio development workshops for further study or professional practice. Open studio sessions for independent practice with tutor support.

    This course provides a strong foundation for continued artistic development and creative exploration in fine art.

  • Additional Information


    Sessions are held in a well equipped art studio, including easels, drawing boards, and access to a variety of materials and students may be asked to bring additional personal materials as needed. Aprons or suitable clothing for painting are recommended.

    If you are on low income this course has concessions (50% off).

    The tutor: Nicholas Middleton is an artist working primarily in painting with a background print, and interests in photography, film and video. He studied printmaking at Winchester School of Art and has recently completed a PhD at the Royal College of Art. As a painter he has exhibited widely in the UK, as well as abroad, and has been selected for the prestigious John Moores Painting Prize five times, twice winning the Visitors' Choice Prize, as well as prizes for watercolours at the Bankside and Mall Galleries. Recent work has investigated the relationship between photography, film and painting.

  • Course Structure


    This course runs for 6 weeks at Tooting.

    Format: Practical, studio based learning in a well equipped studio with all necessary materials and easels.

    Sessions will include:

    *Tutor demonstrations and guidance.

    *Individual practice with ongoing feedback.

    *Group critique and discussion of techniques and artistic choices.

    *Students will be encouraged to develop personal projects and explore their creativity within the studio environment.

  • Assessment Details


    Assessment is informal, focusing on participation, engagement, and skill development. You will receive:

    Continuous verbal and practical feedback from the tutor Constructive peer feedback during group critiques *Optional showcase of selected studies or paintings at the end of the course

    Progress is measured through improvement in technique, observation skills, and artistic confidence rather than formal grading.

  • Teaching and Learning


    The course combines practical studio work, demonstrations, and group discussions to develop both skills and creative thinking. Activities include: Tutor led demonstrations of techniques in oils, acrylics, and various drawing materials Guided practice sessions, allowing learners to experiment with dry and fluid media Exploration of artistic influences, studying the work and methods of established artists Individual and group critiques, encouraging reflection, feedback, and the development of personal style *Project based work, enabling learners to build a substantial body of finished artwork over the duration of the course